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Top tips when viewing a property for the first time

Friday, June 12, 2020

With current government restrictions on viewings, time spent inside the property is at a premium so be prepared for your viewing to make the most of the time available. Here are some of our top tips.

Deciding which properties to view

1. Study all the information available; photos, floorplans, description, map and street view. Check these against your “wish list”. Does it (or could it) have everything you really need? Enough accommodation, storage space, garden, garage/parking etc.

2. If it meets all your requirements, ask us for an “online viewing” to get a real feel for the property and its layout. Many of our properties now have a walkthrough/3D option in addition to our virtual tours. We will talk you through the tour, answering questions as we go, just as we would on a viewing.

3. Drive by and research the location. First impressions really matter so have a look at the property from the outside. Get a good feel for the neighbourhood at various times of day and find out what amenities are in walking distance. Location is important when buying a house – you can change the house but not its location.

At the viewing

• Even if it is love at first sight, try not to let your heart rule your head. Stay objective if you can and view the property in a realistic light.

• Remain focussed with a viewing checklist and note any questions to ask after the viewing

• Ask whether you can take a photo if something about the property requires further consideration

• Check décor, storage, space and condition of all rooms, especially bathrooms and kitchen, which may be expensive to refit. Note anything you would change so that after the viewing you can work out a budget for work required should you decide to proceed.

• Weather permitting, spend time outside the property checking its general condition and appeal. If you are a sun-lover, you may prefer a property which is south-facing, for example.

What to ask after the viewing

Questions about the sale of the house: Why is the vendor selling? How quickly are they hoping to move? How long have they lived there? When was the property put on the market? Have they received any offers? What is included in the sale? What fixtures and fittings will the owners be leaving? Carpets, Curtain poles, Garden sheds?

Questions about the property: Has it been extended or refurbished recently? How old is the property and is it listed? Are there any plumbing/electrical/heating issues? How much is council tax and utility bills? What are the current service charges for any communal areas?

Questions about the location: What are local schools like? What amenities are nearby? Are there parking restrictions? What is local traffic like (at different times of day)?

If the property ticks all the boxes, arrange a second viewing at a different time of day to see it in a different light. You can also “re-visit” the online viewing option as many times as you need to be confident that you have seen all aspects of the property. And if it is still your dream home, talk to us about your next steps. Our expert team will be with you all the way with professional advice and local knowledge to smooth the way. For more information about viewing protocol click here or contact your local Frost office.